Players Who Must Step Up For The Giants in Game 4

ST LOUIS, MO - OCTOBER 17: Angel Pagan #16 of the San Francisco Giants is congratulated by Hunter Pence #8 in front of the dugout after scoring on a fielder's choice hit by Pablo Sandoval #48 of the San Francisco Giants in the third inning against the St. Louis Cardinals in Game Three of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium on October 17, 2012 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (Bleacher Report) — The San Francisco Giants lost Game 3 of the NLCS by a score of 3-1. It was a closely fought contest, which was unfortunately interrupted for over three hours by rain in St. Louis. The Cardinals now lead the series two games to one.

Matt Cain pitched very well for the Giants, but made one costly mistake to Matt Carpenter, who deposited a slider over the right field wall for a two-run home run, giving the Cardinals a 2-1 lead. Carpenter was only in the game because Carlos Beltran had to leave because of a knee strain.

The Giants had their chances, but could not get the clutch hit when they needed it. Cardinals’ starting pitcher Kyle Lohse allowed seven hits and five walks in only five and two-thirds innings of work. The Giants could only muster one run, as Lohse repeatedly pitched out of trouble.

The Giants left 11 men on base and their only run scored on a Pablo Sandoval ground out. The Cardinal relievers again were strong as they finished the game without allowing a run.

Game 4 is now critical for the Giants. CLICK HERE for a look at who will need to step up for San Francisco to get the win.